Sergey Akhunov, born in Kiev in 1967, began his musical career as an oboist before turning to various genres, including electronic music and rock 'n roll, before focusing on orchestral and chamber works in 2005.
Recording & Production
The album features a program of French masterpieces from the 1940s by Poulenc and Messiaen, alongside a contemporary composition by Sergey Akhunov.
Instruments
The piano used in this recording is a 1908 Blüthner, from the Piano Museum in Rybinsk, Russia.
Interpretation
For the violin parts, the performers chose to use gut strings, reflecting the practice of musicians during the time of Poulenc and Messiaen.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Sergey Akhunov's 'Jazz' cycle, despite its title, has nothing jazzy about it, nor is it an illustration of Matisse's works; instead, it was inspired by the experimental nature of Matisse's paper compositions.
Performer Biography
Maxim Emelyanychev, who made his conducting debut at age twelve, is the principal conductor of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and won the Newcomer category at the International Opera Awards 2019.
Composition History
Sergey Akhunov's 'Jazz' cycle was commissioned by the performers Julia Igonina and Maxim Emelyanychev, and was inspired by Henri Matisse's cut-outs.
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